Hundreds of fans stayed up late to welcome home members of the national cricket team returning after their historic win against arch-rivals India at London's Oval Ground.
Crowds had gathered at airports in Karachi and Lahore early Tuesday morning, eagerly awaiting the return of the champions.
Fans decorated the entire street and house of captain Sarfaraz Ahmed who arrived with fast bowler Ruman Raees at 4:45 am with the trophy that Pakistan had won for the first time.
Fans gather outside the Karachi International airport to welcome their national team's arrival from London in Karachi.─AFP
Fans gather outside the Karachi International airport to welcome their national team's arrival from London in Karachi.─AFP
Some even climbed on rooftops and balconies to watch the captain return home. They had waited through the night to welcome their hero, with some carrying children on their shoulders to get a glimpse of the winning captain.
Fans had also brought a special 70-foot long national flag and carried it in the street as Sarfaraz drove home in a special convoy provided by the provincial government.
Both cricketers were presented with traditional Sindhi shawls and caps at the lounge as fans, and airport officials didn't miss an opportunity to take selfies with their heroes.
Sarfaraz held up the trophy to loud cheers and chants of “Long live Sarfaraz!” as a police band played patriotic songs nearby.
“(We won) thanks to Allah and the prayers of the whole nation,” Sarfaraz said in brief comments as he jostled his way through the crowd of well-wishers.
